PDRA in Magnetoelectrics from First Principles

The Role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the design of novel magnetoelectrics from group theory and first principles, to work with Dr Nick Bristowe in the Department of Physics at Durham University.

The position is to commence in April 2021 or as soon as possible thereafter. It is a fixed-term post for 36 months.

Magnetoelectric multiferroic materials exhibit an intrinsic cross-coupling between their spontaneous spin and electrical polarisation. It has been widely recognised that this unique characteristic could lead to new or improved electronic devices but its microscopic origin is complex and theory-led design has been challenging. This project aims to provide a universal framework to describe the coupling mechanisms in order to predict new magnetoelectric multiferroic compounds. We will adopt a novel interdisciplinary approach involving group theoretical analyses and first principles calculations. The predictions will be scrutinised by experimen tal collaborators.

Informal enquiries are welcome and should please be directed

This post is fixed term for 6 months.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

Successful applicants will ideally be in post by 1st April 2025.

The Requirements

Essential:

Qualifications

• A good first degree in Physics or Chemistry or a related subject.
• A PhD (or be close to submission) in Physics or Chemistry or a related subject.

Experience

• Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
• Demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
• Demonstrable ability to present research papers at international conferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.
• Demonstrable ability to collaborate with academic partners.
• Experience in using group theoretical methods to describe symmetry breaking and mode couplings.
• Experience in Density Functional Calculations.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
• Ability to work independently on own initiative and to strict deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Desirable:

Experience

• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
• A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with stage of career.
• Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics.
• Experience of overseeing students with respect to the development of their practical/research skills e.g. acting as a demonstrator; supervising student projects/practicals.
• Experience in magnetoelectric multiferroic materials.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.

When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.

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